oct 1, 1705 - Virgina Slave Codes

Description:

The 1705 Virginia Slave Code was a comprehensive legal framework that formalized race-based chattel slavery in colonial Virginia. It consolidated and expanded on earlier laws, permanently institutionalizing the racial hierarchy and denying Black people legal personhood. This code marked the final legal divide between enslaved Africans and all other colonial residents, including white indentured servants.

Examples of provisions:
- A legal racial divide was drawn: whites had legal protections; Blacks were treated as property.
- Interracial marriage and sexual relations were prohibited. Whites were banned from trading with or marrying Blacks.
- Enslaved people could not own property (e.g., horses, hogs, cattle), carry weapons, Leave their plantation without a written pass, hold gatherings for prayer, burial, or recreation

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